The city of Netanya, also known as the Israeli Riviera, is on the northern Mediterranean coast of the Sharon coastal plain of Israel. Netanya is the largest city on the coast between Tel Aviv and Haifa and is known for its international atmosphere, perhaps due to the large population of French residence. The city’s location places it within easy access of both the attractions in the north and central Israel. Nature lovers can also find beautiful parks and reserves like the Black Iris Reserve and Ramat Poleg just outside the city and a chance to participate in outdoor activities like horse riding and hiking.Netanya is a beach resort city with wide stretches of sandy beach along the length of the city. A series of promenades run parallel to the beach with stores, restaurants, cafes, playgrounds, sports facilities, art galleries, and benches. 12km of beach run along the edge of the city and visitors can try a number of water sports just off the coast. One of the many Netanya beaches which offers water sports, kayak hire, and has a Dive Shop and Hapoel Marine Sports Club is the Amphi Beach. Herzl Beach is great for families as the beach is lined with outdoor cafes and playgrounds. From the beachfront, a pedestrian street takes you into the city center.Along this street and into the city you will find unique boutiques and stores selling a range of goods. Part of Netanya’s charm is the small-town feel of the stores which are run by the owners rather than being impersonal big-name brand chain stores. For the brand names and international chain stores rather head for Netanya’s mall. View of Netanya.Photo by Shai Pal on UnsplashIn the Netanya mall, you’ll find up-market fashion boutiques, entertainment, and eateries. For a taste of the Middle East and a totally different shopping experience visit the Netanya market. There is a daily open-air fresh produce market with stalls selling exotic spices and produce straight from the farms. In the industrial area (which is not far from the city center) you’ll find an outdoor market selling all manner of goods – clothing, shoes, household goods, accessories, jewelry, and more.Netanya has several museums including the Museum of Yemenite Jewish Heritage where you can learn all about this unique culture and their history. The Beit Hagdudim (Jewish Legion) Museum looks at the history of the Jewish Legion during World War One. Netanya has many small art galleries each displaying unique Israeli art. When the sun goes down Netanya offers nightclubs, music clubs, theatre, and beachfront strolls along the many promenades.

The Israeli Trail or Israel National Trail offers an unusual and challenging experience to hike enthusiasts who want to explore the entire country of Israel. The trail runs for approximately 1000km (580-620 miles) from one end of Israel to the other. Hikers can pick up the trail at any point along the route by following the three strips of white, blue and grey which marker the way.In the southern regions of Israel where urban areas are less prevalent hikers need to either send provisions ahead, carry their supplies with them or make use of Trail Angels. The Trail Angels offer a place to sleep and wash or a lift to those taking the trail. This wonderful community effort adds to the enjoyment of the trail as visitors can get to know locals on the kibbutzim and other Israelis who frequently hike the trail. The trails roughly parallel major highways and roads so in an emergency you can hike to the road for help. It is recommended to carry at least a day’s supply of water with you and in the southern regions be aware of the extreme desert heat. However most hikers say that the desert section of the trail is the most scenic.

If you’ll be spending time with your family in the beautiful city of Haifa then you happen to be in one of the most kid-friendly cities in Israel! There are plenty of things to see to keep you busy. Here are some of the best kid-friendly attractions in Haifa, Israel:Cable CarFor a thrilling ride (and a way to get up the mountain) take the cable car from the Bat Galim Promenade all the way to Stella Maris Monastery on the Carmel Ridge. Apart from the thrill of the ride there are gorgeous views across the city and sea.BeachThe Dado Beach and Zamir Beach along the Hof HaCarmel to the west of Haifa are two of the most popular beaches in the country. It is possible to relax, play in the sand, sunbath and even try out water sports. There are restaurants, cafes and stores along the beachfront.National Museum of ScienceThis large museum is full of interactive and hands-on exhibits which explain the basic principles of science and technology. The 400 exhibits cover the topics of sound, the human body, water, electricity, motors and there is a Hall of Mirrors and visual illusions as well as 4D films. The building which houses the museum dates back to 1910 and was originally the Technion Building and once visited by Einstein himself!M. Stekelis Museum of Prehistory and ZooThis zoo will entertain young and old. There is the full range of animals from lions and tigers to the smaller creatures in a petting zoo. In addition to the usual animals you can visit the zoo’s stuffed animal museum and the Botanical Garden section. The zoo is set amid lush plants and tall shady trees.X-ParkThis action park is the largest of its kind in the country. All members of the family can take part in physical challenges like the giant omega, paintball, skating, a climbing wall and a rope bridge park.Clandestine Immigration and Navy MuseumThis museum focuses on the history of Israel’s navy and the clandestine immigration of Jews during the 40s when the country was first being established. However for kids who are navy and ship enthusiasts will find this a thrilling attraction. There are hands-on exhibits and visitors can go onboard a submarine and explore. There is a video presentation of the history of Israel’s navy, naval maps, historic photographs, documents, war medals, model ships and paraphernalia from various vessels.

The Jewish religious calendar is full of events and holy days, most of which commemorate historic biblical events. Each religious holiday comes with its own traditions and religious ceremonies. However only three religious holidays require Jews to make a pilgrimage – Pesach (Passover), Sukkot and Shavuot together they are called Shlosh HaRegalim. Of the three pilgrimages Pesach was the most important as it marks the birth of Israel as a free nation.Seder Pesach, aritual feast that marks the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover.Photo byPhil GoodwinonUnsplashIn ancient times the pilgrimage was to the Temple which stood on Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem up until 70CE. Pilgrims would come to the Temple and bring a sacrificial offering. Today, because the Temple no longer stands, prayer has replaced the sacrifices and the pilgrimage is no longer a Torah obligation. However many thousands of Jews choose to make the annual journey to visit the City of Gold during the pilgrimage festivals.As the Temple is no longer standing the pilgrimage is made to the Wailing Wall, the last remaining wall of the Temple where pilgrims come to pray. There is a point within the Wailing Wall Tunnel which is the closest point to where the Holy of Holies of the 2nd Temple once stood. Many pilgrims go to this point to prey. Other less religious Israeli Jews make the pilgrimage during Passover but turn it into a fun day out in the country’s capital without the religious implications.Pesach is a celebration of freedom, from slavery into independence from a foreign land into their own. Pesach lasts for 7 days (8 days outside of Israel) it begins on the 15th Nissan (usually in March and on the eve of 25th March in 2013) with Seder Night, a celebratory meal when the family comes together. At the Seder meal symbolic foods are eaten and the Hagadah, the story of Israel’s exodus from Egypt, is read.The first and last days of the holiday are observed like a Shabbat so no work is done and most businesses are closed. The intermediate days (Chol-ha-Mo’ed) are like a regular holiday, businesses may open half-day and schools are on vacation. For the entire holiday of 7 days, Jews abstain from eating bread or anything containing fermented grain. This is a reminder of the hasty exit from Egypt when the bread didn’t have time to rise.The Pesach Pilgrimage in the New TestamentChristians will recognize the Passover pilgrimage as an event in the life of Christ when Jesus traveled to Jerusalem with his parent for the Passover pilgrimage. At the time Jesus was only 12 years old, on this visit, his parents lost him and finally found him preaching in the Temple (Luke 4:43). Many years later when Jesus arrived in Jerusalem in the days preceding his crucifixion it was also leading up to the Passover pilgrimage.

With this list of the best markets (Shuk or bazaar) in Israel you will be able to bargain hunt to your heart’s content as well as get a glimpse into the multi-cultural society of Israel. The colorful people who work and shop in the markets, the aromas, sounds, delicious ethnic foods and unique goods will make your trip to Israel complete.Mahane YehudaWhere: Bordered by Agrippas St., Etz Chaim St., Yaffo St. and Beit Yaakov St., JerusalemWhen: Sun-Thurs 8am-7pm, Fri 8am-3pm, Sat closed but some restaurants and cafes openJerusalem’s main market covers several streets and includes a wide range of food stalls, clothing and household goods. You will also find many eateries of a high standard here. The market has become a magnet for foodies wanting to try ethnic cuisine from Georgia, Tunisia, Morocco and of course Israeli. Highlights of the market include Uzi Eli’s healthy juice stall, the Georgian restaurant Hachapuria and the freshly baked pastries.Shuk HaCarmelWhere: HaCarmel Street, Tel Aviv; Magen David Square to CarmalitWhen: Sun-Thurs 8am-5-6pm, Fri 8am-3pm, Sat closedThis is Tel Aviv’s main market in the middle of the city. Here you can walk down the long pedestrian street and enjoy fresh produce, clothing, toys, household goods, bakeries, fish mongers, butchers and more. The single street market is adjacent to the more sophisticated Nahalet Benyamin Arts and Crafts Fair which is open Tuesdays 10am-6pm and Fridays 10am-3/4:30pm. Here the artists sell their creations which are all hand-made.Jaffa Flea MarketWhere: Across the streets of Olei Zion, Yehuda Margoza, Beit Eshel and connecting covered alley ways in Jaffa.When: Sun-Thurs 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-2pm, Sat closedJaffa Shuk HaPishpushim (flea market) is a truly unique market. It is located in the streets adjacent to Jaffa’s main thoroughfare where the Clock Tower stands. Here you will find piles and piles of antiques, secondhand goods, clothing, musical instruments, jewelry and more. It is truly a flea market, a place for bargain hunters willing to take their time looking for something special. The market has a number of lanes with antique stalls and trendy eateries as well as narrow covered lanes lined on both sides by small stalls piled high with goods and clothing hanging from the shop entrances. Outside you can see carpets spread out on the street along with antique furniture on display alongside a wild mix of everything including the kitchen sink.Acre Old City MarketWhere: Market Street, Acre Old CityWhen: Daily until 6pmThe surrounding buildings of this market make it so special. The market is the main thoroughfare of Acre’s Old Crusader City. During the Crusader Era of the 13th century the Market Street led from the Hospitallers Gate in the north along King’s Way (Via Regis) to the port. Follow the narrow lanes from the entrance to the Old City all the way to the sea port. The sides of this pedestrian-only street are lined with stores selling clothing, fresh fish, hookahs, spices, coffee beans, fresh fruit, cheap toys, linen and household goods. The smells and sound of this market are vibrant. You are walking through the ancient city where people still live and come to the market for their daily shopping. The street splits at several points and you should take a look down the streets less traveled to see into traditional courtyard dwellings, see ornate balconies, flowers handing from the windows, washing out to dry and old men sitting playing backgammon as they smoke their hookahs. Try the baklava sweetmeats and taste some of the unusual herbs and spices on offer. Fresh fish is a great dish to try in the many eateries and when you have walked the length of the market and reached the sea why not take a short boat excursion or ride on a horse-drawn carriage. One of the lanes leading off of the main market street is called the Turkish Bazaar and has been restored into a quaint, gentrified row of eateries, arts and crafts stores.Tel Aviv PortWhere: Hangar 12, Port Tel AvivWhen: Mon-Thurs 8am-8:30pm, Fri 7am-4pm, Sat 8:30am-8pm, food stalls, Kitchen Market and Tapas Bar open daily until 11pm; Farmers’ Market Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings.Shuk HaNamal bills itself as the House of Culinary Israel it is a sophisticated version of the other city markets. It has a great location in Tel Aviv’s port and was the country’s first covered market and was also the first green commercial building in Israel. The market is driven by a desire to provide fresh, seasonal, quality produces and to educate shoppers about the products they buy. The fresh produce found here is really in another league from other Israeli markets. You will often find the vendors grew the produce or made the cheese, wine or baked goods themselves. There are local and international products, specialty stores, a large number of organic fruits and vegetables, butchers, fish mongers, wine, American style delis, artisan cheese, baked goods, hand-made pasta, olives and a professional cookware stall. Looking down on the indoor market from a gallery is a restaurant, demonstration kitchen and center for cooking workshops. In and around the market are many trendy eateries. A farmers’ market is set up in the adjacent squares on Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings. The Farmers’ Market is part of the slow food trend, defending the biodiversity in the food supply and working with suppliers with high standards in animal treatment and environmental protection. For example there are no plastic bags at this market. On Saturdays from 10am to 6pm there is also an Artists’ and Collectors Fair on the pier of Port Tel Aviv.Jerusalem Old City MarketWhere: From the Damascus Gate Old City Jerusalem down El Wad, Via Dolorosa, Cotton Merchants’ Market and three parallel streets between David St. and Chain St.When: Sun-Thurs 9am-sundown, Fridays early closing, Sat closedAs you walk through the narrow lanes of Jerusalem’s Old City Muslim and Christian Quarters market you can imagine that these were the streets that Jesus walked. 2000 years ago market stall holders probably stood here hawking their goods in the very same way as today’s vendors. What makes the Old City market even more interesting is that a large portion of it runs along the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took as he carried his cross on the way to his crucifixion where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre now stands. The narrow lanes of the market have small open store fronts on both sides. You can find a range of goods including Hebron glassware, religious goods, hand-made brushes, household goods, traditional Arabian clothing, tourist souvenirs, pastries, Armenian ceramics, olive wood objects, handcrafts, brassware, spices and the delicious freshly squeezed fruit juices. Most tours of the Old City follow at least a portion of the market streets. In the Christian Quarter the market place is called Muristan, a distortion of the Persian-Turkish word for hospital as a Crusader hospital once stood here. While in the market you can see the site of the former hospital and the restored Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. Next to the Muristan is the Aftimos Market, an area of bustling streets lined with stores. The Muristan market area dates back to the 2nd century BC. Today the area has been restored and a beautiful fountain stands at the heart of the market, it was constructed to mark the 25th anniversary of the reign of Sultan Abed al-HamidRamla MarketWhere: Between Herzl Blvd., Detroit Community St. and Jabotinsky Street, Ramle.When: Sun-Fri 7am-5pm, on Tuesdays the market closes at noon, Wednesday market 7am-4pmThis is one of the most authentic markets in the country and one of the oldest. It was founded at the end of the Ottoman era, renovated under the British Mandate and has continue working since then. The market has a reputation as one of the cheapest markets in Israel. Vendors use tape recorded sales pitches to call shoppers to their stalls. The market is always loud with hawking vendors and Middle Eastern music. On offer are many diverse products and the area is full of small hole-in-the-wall type eateries. Try the ice cold lemonade at the Limonero stand, buy unusual spices found only here and the ethnic restaurants in the area. On Wednesdays the traveling Ramle-Lod market sets up alongside the regular market on King Solomon Blvd in front of the Grand Mosque. The goods are displayed from make-shift stalls and you can get almost all clothing items for under 20ILS as well as household goods, toys, food, sweets, natural health products, mobile phones, accessories and more. Being somewhat off the tourist route Ramle is a great market to visit where you won’t be among crowds of other tourists.Rosh Haayin MarketWhen: Fridays 7:30am- about 3 hours before sundown.Where: Yehoshu’a Bin Nun st., Rosh HaayinRosh Haayin is a city off the usual tourist route. It is in central Israel, about 20min north of Tel Aviv. Rosh Haayin has many residents of Jewish Yemenite decent and the market captures that Middle Eastern feel. In fact this is a good place to buy Yemenite spices and taste Yemenite food like jachnun, Kubana and malauach. You can even find bunches of gat, a leaf traditionally chewed by many Yemenite men. It is a sprawling covered market on an open plot, so no meandering lanes like other Israeli markets. There is always a sense of urgency in the air as the Shabbat approaches and locals are in a hurry to get home with their purchases. The market sells a wide variety of goods including fresh fruit and vegetables and nuts, spices. There are many clothing stalls, underwear, household items, Israeli-style ready-to-eat-foods, toys, linen, shoes and cheap art work. The market has a reputation for its cheap prices although it is not a market for bargaining as the prices are already rock bottom. Try a cup of the lemonade at the market entrance, take a walk down the aisle with fresh herbs to smell the parsley, cilantro and fennel but you’ll really love the clothing sections. Bring cash as the market stalls don’t accept credit cards. This market is a great choice if you want a market frequented by locals rather than tourists.Bezalel Arts Fair JerusalemWhere: Bezalel HaKatan St. Near Ben Yehuda St., between Bezalel St. and Shmuel HaNagid, JerusalemWhen: Fridays 10am-4pmThe artIsts of the city sell their creations at this arts and crafts fair. The market has a neighborhood feel and is frequented by trendy hipsters, young families and local residents. The market hasn’t been around for long, it was established in 2009 but is extremely popular. It is similar to the Nahalat Binyamin market in Tel Aviv. On offer are hand-made goods including ceramics, jewelry, hand-painted items, paintings, Judaica, hand-made leather goods, wooden toys, books and chimes among other creations. If you want you can get your hands painted by a henna artist. On one side of the market is the historic former building of Israel’s finest school of arts and design and on the other side are boutiques and sidewalk cafes.Be’er Sheva Bedouin MarketWhere: Derech Habron, Be’er ShevaWhen: ThursdaysThis is a raw, no-frills market in the southern city of Be’er Sheva. It is held in a vacant plot covered only by awnings. The market is a sprawling mix of make-shift stalls and Bedouin who come to the market to sell their wares. Ten years ago you may have seen camels here and Bedouin women selling piles of herbs spread out on blankets on the ground. It is sometimes referred to as the Camel Market. Today the market has become a little more sophisticated but retains its rural feel. This is a market where you won’t see many tourists. You can find the usual market items as well as rows of fabric, electronic goods, pickles, large bags of spices, toys and make-up. The market will give you a glimpse into the colorful blend of cultures in southern Israel.

Don’t leave Israel without seeing these top tourist destinations1. Jerusalem Old City, JerusalemWithin the ancient walls of Jerusalem’s Old City you can see the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Wailing Wall, Via Dolorosa, the Armenian Quarter, Dome of the Rock and many more of Israel’s top sights.2. Bahai Gardens, HaifaHaifa’s top must-see sight is the garden which cascades down 18 terraces on Mount Carmel, at the top of the garden is the white Bahia Temple. The gardens are maintained impeccably with bright seasonal flowers and landscaped patterns.3. Jaffa Port, Tel-AvivJaffa today has been renovated and preserved, the high stone walls and narrow lanes which balance on the cliff are used for specialty art galleries, restaurants, a small museum and an observation point where you can look back across the water to Tel-Aviv. Visit the flea market and antique stores here and be sure to bargain.4. Sea of GalileeThis inland sea is where Jesus performed many of his miracles like walking on the water and the feeding of the multitude. The fresh water sea is perfect for boat trips and for swimming and is surrounded by stunning countryside. Along the edges of the sea of Galilee are various Biblical sites and small quaint chapels.5. Dead SeaThe Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth a visit here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The sea’s unique salinity (8.6 saltier than the sea) makes the water thick and almost oily so that you can’t sink. You can float in the Dead Sea and benefit from the rejuvenating qualities of the highly concentrated minerals.6. Red Sea, EilatHire a snorkel or take a dive in the crystal clear Red Sea. The coral reefs, tropical fish and even dolphins make this a site not to miss.7. Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, JerusalemThe world’s best Holocaust museum housed in an innovative modern building, the museum holds thousands of documents, photos, video testimonials and artifacts from the darkest time in the history of the Jewish people.8. Church of the Annunciation, NazarethSee the place where Mary and Joseph lived and where the archangel revealed to Mary that she would soon carry the son of God. One of the most moving features is the display of images of Madonna and baby Jesus from around the world. The mosaics and paintings show the holy family as black, white and Asian according to how the Christians in those countries envision them.9. Acre Old City, AcreEnter the narrow cobbled lanes of this walled port city which is alive with people bustling through the market, this is real living history. The labyrinth of lanes leads you from the entrance down to the water’s edge.10. Ramon CraterWhen driving down from the center of Israel to Eilat the road passes this Crater which is 40km long, 500 meters deep and 10km wide. From Mitzpe Ramon on the northern wall of the crater you can look down on the magnificent desert landscape.It must be said that Bethlehem would have been on this list but officially it is in Palestine and not Israel. Caesarea, Tel-Aviv and Masada also narrowly missed the list!

Israel has some exclusive luxury spa resorts situated in unique locations including the Dead Sea area and on the shores of the Red Sea. Take a look at these top luxury spas in Israel which have all been nominated or won the World Travel Awards title of leading spa resort.Carmel Forest Spa Resort, HaifaThis is a 126 room luxury spa resort nestled in the Carmel Forest Nature Reserve on a mountain top surrounded by trees. The natural surroundings add to the exclusive and unique feel of this resort. All the luxuriously furnished rooms have breathtaking mountain views and guests can use the resort facilities for free. The facilities include a Turkish steam bath (Hamam) imported from Turkey, a gym, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools. Among the added extras available at the resort are spa treatments, massages, tai-chi, meditation, palates and the services of a dietitian. There are three meals a day prepared by a gourmet chef with a focus on healthy eating. The two outstanding features which make this one of Israel’s best luxury spas are the stunning location and that the resort is a child-free-zone!Herods, EilatIn Israel’s leading vacation city you’ll find three luxury Herods hotels – Herods Palace, Herods Vitalis and Herods Boutique but it is the Vitalis which offers spa treatments on another level. The exclusive 53 suit hotel provides a tranquil retreat to those seeking peace and quiet. For this reason under 18s and cell phones are not allowed at the Vitalis. The hotel’s location overlooking the Red Sea and within walking distance from Eilat’s dynamic attractions makes this a perfect vacation option. The design of Herods Vitalis exudes opulence, the architecture resembles a palace with all the trimmings and together with the pampering service and professional spa treatments guests are made to feel like royalty.Mizpe Hayamim Resort, Rosh Pina This resort on a 15 hectare property of pristine countryside enjoys views of the Golan Heights, Sea of Galilee and Mount Hermon. The resort property has gardens, paths, pools and brooks as well as being an organic farm. The farm grows Biblical fruit and vegetables and breeds farm animals organically providing the spa with fresh organic produce. In these ecologically harmonious surroundings the guest rooms are individually designed and the spa offers a range of unique treatments. On the grounds are craft workshops, soap and candle making workshops and an organic bakery. The facilities include a fitness room, dry and wet sauna, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzi and swimming pool.Le Meridian, Dead SeaThis resort has won the award for best spa in Israel for 6 consecutive years. Its location on the shore of the Dead Sea gives it a unique twist and the spa treatments make use of the concentrated minerals provided by the Dead Sea water and mud. The treatments include Dead Sea mud body masques and sea weed wraps.When you’re not getting one of the spa treatments you can visit the private beach, enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, fitness center, Dead Sea water pools, Jacuzzi and sauna. The large resort has five restaurants, an exclusive 16th floor business level and all rooms have a view of the Dead Sea.Vered HagalilThis exclusive get-away location is named as one of the “1,000 places to see before you die” in the Workman Publications book of the same name. The style of this resort is different to the others mentioned above, it is more rural, down to earth and suited to nature lovers. What makes this a stand-out luxury resort is the horse riding facilities and the individual wooden chalet-style accommodation set in untamed country surroundings. Guests can stay in 2 room cottages, cabins, studio rooms or suites. All the units have a Jacuzzi, luxury facilities and rustic style furnishing. The spa offers treatments in a quiet shady part of the farm with an emphasis on reconnecting with nature.Check out our Dead Sea Spa & Relaxation tour >>The tour include a visit to Mineral or Kalya beach in the Dead Sea with optional SPA treatments

At the moment the status of Israel is classified as “Exercise increased caution in Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest". Due to COVID-19 until further notice, entry to Israel is still denied to most non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world. The Ministry of Health has permitted a few vaccinated groups from the "green list" countries, to enter Israel as a study case.Protective Face Masks For Coronavirus.Photo by Mika Baumeister on UnsplashTravel Safety – IsraelThere is at present no “war” in Israel and so for the most part life goes on as usual. Almost all the top travel destinations in Israel, attractions, and sites are in safe areas of the country. You will have no problem or threat of safety if you wish tovisit Tel Aviv, tourJerusalem, see Haifa, or get to theDead Sea, to name a few.The areas to avoid are those near the Lebanon border (Sheba’a Farms and Ghajar); and Gaza and its immediate surroundings. If you wish to visit the West Bank, note that you can do so - but better take an organized tour to avoid trouble - for example, a day tour to Bethlehemor a trip to Jericho.So is it safe to travel in Israel? Considering theinfection rates drop and the high percentage of vaccinated residents in Israel, the risk has significantly reduced.Jaffa Port Aerial View, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockTravel Safety – JordanSo is it safe to travel to Jordan from Israel?Normally, Jordan is safe for visitors and actually takes great precautions to insure tourist comfort and safety. In this updated analysis you'll see just how safe Jordan is. No wonder so many visitors like to combine Israel and Jorden Tours, and enrich their visit to the holy land with a Petra Tour from Jerusalem.Once you are set to travel to Israel, you can further ensure your safety by registering with your embassy in Israel, this way, you will be sent current or emergency travel warnings. Also, travel with full travel insurance coverage; leave photocopies of your itinerary, passport, and other documents with a friend or family; travel with the local embassy’s address and phone number and be aware of local customs and norms so as not to get yourself in any dangerous situations.Treasury, Petra Archeological Park, Jordan.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

This year Shavuot will be celebrated from sundown on Tuesday 3rd to sundown on Thursday 5th of June. Shavuot is also called the Festival of Weeks, First Fruits, Harvest Holiday or Pentecost. This religious and traditional Jewish holiday is a celebration of the first harvest. When the Holy Temple stood in Jerusalem this would have been the time when the first fruits were brought as an offering to the Temple. This agricultural holiday is one of three major Jewish holidays which requires religious Jews to make a journey to Jerusalem. In ancient times the Jewish people would make the annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem on Passover, Sukkoth (Feast of Booths), and Shavuot. Shavuot also marks the end of the Counting of the Omer, a 50 day period starting on the first day of Passover. An Omer was the Biblical measure of a quantity of grain and at the end of the counting of the Omer, an offering would be made from the first wheat harvest of the year. Because of the holiday’s association with agriculture, the symbols of Shavuot are the seven species of Israel – wheat, grapes, barley, pomegranates, dates, olives, and figs. The holiday also marks the day when the Torah was given to the people of Israel at Mount Sinai.What to Expect When Visiting Israel during ShavuotYour trip to Israel will only be slightly affected if you are here during Shavuot. On the one hand, there are many fun events, parties, and a holiday atmosphere and on the other hand, Shavuot is a national religious holiday and you may find some sites closed for two days. During Shavuot Israelis traditionally wear white clothes, young children often are asked to wear flower wreaths in their hair to school and the stores are overflowing with an abundance of fruit.It is traditional to study Torah throughout the night during Shavuot so the Western Wall will be alive with visitors and worshipers night and day. Religious Jews attend synagogue on Shavuot and hear the reading of the Book of Ruth which is associated with the holiday. It is traditional to eat dairy products on Shavuot so you’ll find restaurants offering delicious meals made with Israel’s wonderful dairy products. Religious and non-religious alike tend to keep the tradition of dressing in white and enjoying delicious dairy meals. If you have the opportunity to visit a moshav or kibbutz on Shavuot you could attend the Shavuot ceremony of Bikkurim (first fruits) when the harvest fruits and grains are displayed in festive parades. In Jerusalem, you will find special happenings at many museums, malls and lots of activity, and a festive atmosphere in the Old City.

Being such a small country Israeli cities are never too far away from the open countryside, farms and rural communities. The country has more than 300 wineries, 25 commercial wineries and 150 boutique wineries. The main wine producing areas in Israel include the Judean Hills where Tzuba Boutique Winery, Agur Boutique Winery and the Tzora Winery are located; Carmel region where there is the Vortman Winery, Maor Winery and the wineries of Zichron Yaakov including Somek Winery. Even in the south you can find wineries like the Yatir Winery, Midbar Winery and the Yatir Winery. There are five official wine regions in Israel – Galilee-Golan, Shomron, Samson, Judean Hills and the Negev. Thanks to the length of Israel it has several micro-climates which can support the growth of different types of grapes. More than 90% of Israel’s vineyards are in the Shomron, Samson and Galilee region while younger vineyards can be found in the Upper Galilee and Judean foothills.Grapes and a glass of white wine. Photo credit: © ShutterstockWine production in Israel dates back to Biblical times; archaeological excavations have uncovered ancient wine presses, storage cisterns, and decorative motifs depicting winemaking, grape clusters, and vines. In the 1990s Israeli wine production really took off, modern techniques and equipment were introduced and about 85% of Israel’s wineries were established in the 90s.More recently there have been many boutique winery start-ups that have sprung up across the country. Some of the stand-out wineries in Israel include Bashan which produces organic wine, Carmel which is the largest Israeli winery, Barkan the second largest, Margalit Winery credited as being Israel’s first boutique winery and Binyamina the third largest winery.Kosher Wine and Kosher-Mevushal Wine in IsraelThere are about 80 kosher wineries in Israel, so what makes wine kosher? Kosher wine needs to be overseen and produced only by Shabbat-keeping observant Jews from the time the grapes are picked to the time it is bottled – from crushing to bottling. This ancient law was created because at one time pagans used wine in their worship of idols and so the Jewish leaders wanted to ensure that no Jew was ever mistakenly given wine that had been used in idol worship.However this wasn’t enough, the Jewish authorities still worried that after opening the bottle might be tampered with (used for idol worship). And so Mevushal wine was introduced. Mevushal wine (literally cooked wine) has been heated to the point where idol worshipers wouldn’t use it in their ceremonies. So the rule is that wine that is not mevushal cannot be served to a Jew by a non-Jew. These laws were established a long time ago and the process of boiling wine would take out all the flavor. Thankfully today a process called flash pasteurization is used to make the wine “mevushal.” The process involves rapidly heating the wine to about 180°F/82.2°C for a minute and then rapidly cooling it. This helps retain the flavor that would be lost if it was really boiled. So wine you buy in Israel could be non-kosher, kosher because it has been produced by Shabbat observant Jews, or kosher Mevushal because it has been flash pasteurized.Grapevinefor harvest.Photo credit: © ShutterstockGolan Heights WineryThe Golan Heights has the ideal soil, climate, and topography for many crops and especially for vineyards. If you want a genuine wine country experience then the Golan Heights can make a great day trip. In the heart of Israel’s wine country, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent vineyards, breathtaking views, and small communities. Start your visit at the Visitors Center of Golan Heights Winery near Katzrin. Here you can get information about the tours and wine tastings available and about the history and production of Israeli wine. In the Wine Shop, you can buy souvenirs and locally produced wines. Open hours are 08:30-18:30 Monday to Thursday, 08:30-17:30 on Sundays, and 08:30-13:30 on Fridays and holiday eves.There are several tour options that are led by knowledgeable guides in Hebrew, Russian, English, French, German, Spanish or Swedish. Tours must be booked in advance on the Golan Heights Winery website. The Classic Visit includes a guided tour that covers the wine-making process, a visit to the oak barrel cellar, and a chance to taste several of the Golan Heights Winery wines. The Classic Visit lasts about an hour. For real aficionados, there is a Professional Wine-Tasting Visit which lasts 2 hours and includes a wider selection of wines in the tasting. You also have the option of a Premium Visit which includes a gourmet meal together with your wine tasting in the VIP room or the wine cellar and lasts 2 hours. The 4 hour Vineyard Tour takes you on a drive through the vineyards in an all-terrain vehicle. Your guide will introduce you to the various types of grapes and the incredible geography of the Golan Heights. This tour also includes wine tasting.Grapevine close-up. Photo by Bill Williams on UnsplashCarmel WineryThe Carmel Winery is located in Zichron Yaakov and they have a new Carmel Wine & Culture Center. The center has a wine store, restaurant, tasting rooms, a screening room, and a barrel room in one of Rothschild’s historic underground cellars. Visitors can choose from several touring and tasting options. On a Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting, you can visit the historic wine cellars, taste wine, and see a film presentation (1 hour, 30 ILS). A Winery Tour and Wine Workshop includes a more professional look at the site and a longer wine tasting session (1.5 hours, 50ILS). An Advances Tour and Wine Workshop includes a customized tour, tutoring about the art of wine tasting, and delicious cheese, vegetable, and bread platter (2 hours, 100ILS). The tours must be booked in advance and are slightly more expensive if you want to visit after 17:00. The winery center is open 09:30-17:00 Sunday to Thursday, 09:00-14:00 on Friday and holiday eves, and is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.People in the Field Picking Grapes for the Last Harvest. Photo by Tina Witherspoon on UnsplashDalton WineryThe Dalton Winery is nestled in the hills of the Upper Galilee not far from the Lebanese border and overlooking Mount Hermon. The winery was established in 1995 by the Haruni family that emigrated from England. The winery makes about 800,000 bottles a year. Their vineyards grow at an altitude of 800-900 meters above sea level in the rich soil of the volcanic plateau and in the ideal climatic conditions. The winery recently moved to new premises in the Dalton Industrial Park where they can handle up to 1000 tones. The winery is adjacent to the vineyards making it a picturesque and ideal winery to visit. There is also a factory outlet store selling wine and products from Galilee. On the tour of the winery, you get to see the barrel room, bottling line, and taste the wines.Dalton Winery Visitors Center welcomes visitors for tours that can be booked by calling 04-698 7683 Ext. 2. However if you are in the area you can pop in for wine tasting without a prior booking. The Visitors Center is open daily except for Saturdays and Jewish holidays between 10 am and 4 pm. The last tour is at 3 pm. Green Grapes.Photo credit: © ShutterstockOn Fridays, you can visit from 10 am to 2 pm and the last tour is at 1 pm. The tour and tasting take about 45 minutes. A guided tour followed by tasting costs 20ILS. It is possible to arrange a group tour (30-80 people) together with a light dairy meal. Religious guests can arrange a tour and tasting led by the winery’s Rabbi. Note that not all the wines produced and sold at Dalton Winery are kosher-mevushal.All the above-mentioned Israeli wineries can be contacted on their websites, tours should be booked in advance and you should always phone ahead. In addition, you can visit other Israeli wineries including Katlav in the Judaean Hills; Tzora in the Judaean Hills open to visitors Sunday to Thursday 10 am-5 pm and Friday 9 am-2 pm.Avidan Winery in the Sharon region is open to visitors Friday to Saturday 11 am-4 pm; Bazelet HaGolan in the Golan Heights is open to the public Sunday to Friday 9 am to 3 pm; Assaf Winery in the Golan Heights is open daily 11 am to 4 pm and the Margalit Winery near Caesarea is open to the public in Spring.Vineyard at sunset.Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Dance teachers, performers and enthusiasts gather each year on the edge of the Dead Sea to take part in one of the most uniquely Middle Eastern festivals in Israel – the Ya-Salam Belly Dance Festival. Belly DanceThe festival has been held annually since 2005 and attracts participants and spectators from around the world. During the festival there are dance shows, workshops and belly dance parties with live performers. As part of the festival an amateur stage will provide space for dancers of all levels to show their talent, interested dancers should register beforehand.When: Nov 29, 2012 – Dec 1, 2012–08–29Where: Leonardo Hotel, The Dead Sea (at the former Nova Hotel)

Tabgha is a small area right on the edge of the Sea of Galilee, on the western shore between Capernaum and Ginosar and just below the Mount of Beatitudes. The name Tabgha comes from the Greek – Heptapegon, meaning place of the seven springs. Tabgha has been identified as the site of the miracle of the loaves and fish (Mark 6:30-46) and the place where resurrected Christ came to meet his disciples (John 21:1-24). The seven springs of Tabgha bring warm water into the Sea of Galilee attracting fish which has made it a popular fishing area for centuries. The area has lush green vegetation, trees offering shade and the cool water just a few steps away.Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish, Tabgha. Photo credit: © ShutterstockBiblical TabghaThe Gospel of Matthew tells us that after Jesus heard that John the Baptist had been beheaded by the Romans he withdrew in a boat to a secluded area. Crowds of followers went after Jesus and by nightfall, there were 5,000 people gathered on the hillside. Jesus took five loaves of bread and two fish and gave them the traditional blessing. Then he divided the food among the gathered crowd. The loaves and fish miraculously fed all of the 5,000 people and there were even leftovers.After Jesus was resurrected he appeared several times to the disciples; one of these appearances took place in Tabgha. Peter, Andrew, Simon, and four other disciples were at Tabgha where they had been fishing through the night but had failed to catch anything. They came ashore and as the sun rose they saw Jesus standing in front of them on the beach of Tabgha. The disciples did not recognize Jesus but he called out to them. He told them to throw their fishing nets back into the water. When the disciples brought their nets in they found them full of fish. Jesus prepared food for the disciples over a fire and lay out the food on a rock. This rock became known as the Mensa Christi and can be seen today in the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter at Tabgha.Jesus challenged Peter’s faith three times symbolically canceling out the three times that Peter denied Christ on the night before the crucifixion. Then Jesus commissioned Peter to lead the church. He asked Peter to feed his lambs, tend his sheep and feed his sheep. Jesus also told Peter that he would die a martyr. From this point onwards Peter was recognized as the head of the church and the apostles.History of TabghaFloor mosaics in theChurch of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish, Tabgha.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinIn the Byzantine era, the spring water of Tabgha was channeled into three water towers and taken via aqueducts to nearby Ginosar to be used for irrigation. During the 4th century, a small chapel was built by Joseph of Tiberias. It was replaced with a chapel in 480 by Martyrius of Jerusalem, the Patriarch of Jerusalem. Martyrius was originally from Egypt and he had the floor mosaics of the chapel created in the Egyptian style. The mosaic we see today of the fish and loaves has survived from this original chapel.The chapel was destroyed in 614 and remained in ruins until excavation in the 20th century. Under the Crusaders the Church of St Peter’s Primacy was constructed in Tabgha and the city was known as Mensa Christi (table of Christ) or Mensa Domini (work of the table). During the Ottoman era in 1595, a village existed on the site of Tabgha with a few houses and mills. Under the British Mandate, a community of Muslim and Christian Arabs lived here and farmed the land. During the 1948 Israeli War of Independence, Tabgha was cleared of residents and structures destroyed. Since then Tabgha’s lands and historic structures have been restored.Tabgha AttractionsChurch of the Primacy of St. PeterAfter Jesus’ resurrection, he appeared to his disciples at Tabgha where they sat down together to eat. It was at this time that Jesus chose Peter to lead the Christian church. This site is commemorated on the beach of Tabgha by the Church of the Primacy of St Peter. It is a small structure built in 1934 of black basalt rock. In the surrounding gardens, you can see a bronze sculpture depicting Jesus giving Peter his blessing. The church is literally on the water’s edge and you can take just a few steps down to the shore and even touch the water. This is a quaint and peaceful church with idyllic gardens and ample shade all around.Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and FishThe 20th centuryChurch of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish that we see today stands on the site of the original 4th-century church and the Byzantine floor mosaic has survived. The mosaic features images of birds, snakes, vines, fish, and flowers. There are peacocks, a flamingo, swan, ducks, herons, geese, cranes, geese, and cormorants. The most significant mosaic is the one closest to the altar that depicts a basket of bread flanked by two fish. Rock in its natural state lies beneath the altar and is believed to be where Jesus placed the bread and fish as he made the blessing.To visit Tabgha, join ourNazareth and Galilee Tour.

The Christian gospels tell us that Jesus spent 3-6 years (27/29 AD – 30/36 AD) preaching in the Galilee, during his ministry in the Galilee he met and recruited his disciples and traveled around the countryside preaching as well as performing several miracles. His Galilee ministry began with his baptism at the site now known as Yardenit. Today several churches mark the significant sites where biblical events occurred in the Galilee.The Greek Orthodox Church of the Marriage Feast, Cana, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Church of the House of St Peter, CapernaumJesus based himself in the village of Capernaum (Kfar Nahum) during his Galilee ministry; extensive excavations have uncovered a Roman-era synagogue constructed of black basalt rock which could have been where Jesus preached. In addition, Capernaum was the hometown of Saint Peter (and several other future disciples). St. Peter’s house was used for gatherings of the followers of Jesus during his lifetime and later the site was revered by Christians so that over the years churches have been built above the house to commemorate St. Peter.Today the Church of St. Peter is a modern structure located within the Kfar Nahum National Park. The modern church has been built on the site of St. Peter’s house but raised above archaeological findings. Visitors can peer down through a glass-covered opening in the center of the church and see the excavated house of St. Peter as well as a later 5th-century octagonal Byzantine church. In the tradition of earlier churches, the modern Church of St Peter is also octagonal. Within the structure are motifs of the Sea of Galilee and biblical scenes from Saint Peter’s life.Aerial view of Capernaum, Town of Jesus, Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of the Apostles, CapernaumThe Greek Orthodox Church of the Apostles is located on the southeastern edge of what would have been the Roman village of Capernaum; the church is dedicated to the seven apostles named in the Gospel of John. The church was completed in 1931 on the site where the village of Capernaum was relocated following an earthquake in 746 AD. The picturesque church has a white exterior with bright red onion domes. Within the church, almost every surface is covered with intricate and colorful murals.Church of the BeatitudesLocated on the Mount of Beatitudes above Capernaum overlooking the Sea of Galilee is the Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus gave his sermon on the mount which contains some of the pivotal teachings in Christianity. The sermon contained the 10 blessings that begin “Blessed are…” as well as the Lord’s Prayer. To mark the site where Jesus gave his longest teaching of Christian principles is the Franciscan Church of the Beatitudes. The church was designed by renowned Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi and constructed in 1938. The church is set in a tranquil garden and the exterior has a covered arcade supported by columns separated by arched openings. The roof of the church has a single central dome. Within the church are stained glass windows featuring the beatitudes and gold mosaics in the dome. The church has an octagonal shape to symbolize the 8 beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-11). The church has been visited by Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II.Church of the Beatitudes.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, TabghaTabgha is believed to have been the site of the first feeding when Jesus performed the miracle of sharing 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish with 5,000 people who had come to hear him. The Roman Catholic Church is a modern structure constructed on the site of two earlier churches. Elements of the earlier churches have been preserved including a 5th-century floor mosaic in the two transepts featuring plants, animals, and a lotus flower. Near the altar is a mosaic of two fish and a basket of bread. During excavations a limestone slab of rock was found, this now lies under the altar and is thought to have been the table where Jesus shared out the miraculous meal.Church of the Primacy of Peter, TabghaThis modern Franciscan chapel built in 1933 marks the site where Jesus ate with his disciples following his resurrection and also where Jesus reinstated St. Peter who had denied knowing Jesus three times at Jesus’ crucifixion. It is the signature event of Jesus appointing Peter to look over his church that led to the Pope (a successor of Peter) being the leader of the Christian world (John 21:15-19). The church is located on the water’s edge of the Sea of Galilee, there are even stone steps going down to the water. The steps were carved out of the rock c.2nd century. On the water’s edge at the base of the steps are 12 heart-shaped blocks called the Twelve Thrones dedicated to the 12 Apostles. At high tide, the block columns are submerged beneath the water. The church holds the Mensa Christi or the table where Jesus and his disciples ate. Earlier churches that stood on this site have been incorporated into the more recent structure. Remains of the walls of a 4th-century church are visible in the grey stone structure.Inside the Church of the Multiplication, near the sea of Galilee, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockCana FranciscanWedding Church, Kfar CanaUnlike the churches mentioned above which all lie on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, this church is in the Lower Galilee between the Sea of Galilee and Nazareth. It was here that Jesus performed his first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding celebration (John 2:1-11).The site of this miracle is marked with a church. It is a Franciscan Catholic church constructed from 1879 to 1883 over the ruins of a 6th-century church and also has a 4th-century mosaic floor with Aramaic inscriptions. The baroque-style church has twin bell towers, and a façade topped with angel statues. There is an arcaded narthex and a pleasant front courtyard. The interior has two levels with a dome above the upper church and a nave on the lower level where you can see part of a Byzantine mosaic. On the lower level is a chapel and museum with artifacts found during the construction.Church of St. George, Kfar CanaNext to the Marriage Church is a Greek Orthodox Church built in 1886, the church holds two of the six jars believed to have been used in the miracle of the wine. Outside the church is a courtyard with palm trees, bells, gazebos, and fountains but the interior is usually closed to tourists.Franciscan Wedding Church, Cana. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

The ancient incense route ran from Yemen, Oman, Somalia and Arabia through Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea port of Gaza, Palestine, covering 1,800 km and passing through 56 stops along the way. The stretch of this route which goes through southern Israel is 100 km long from Moa on the Jordanian border to Halutz. This ancient route through four towns in the Negev – Avdat, Halutz, Mamshit and Shivta; four fortresses – Kazra, Nekarot, Makhmal and Grafor and two caravanserais – Moa and Saharonim was deemed of outstanding universal importance by UNESCO in 2005. The remains offer evidence of the sophisticated engineering, knowledge of agriculture and irrigation used to settle this challenging environment to facilitate trade.Starting in the 3rd century BC and continuing for 700 years the Nabataean people traveled in large caravans from Petrain Jordan, across the burning desert to bring the precious incense and spices to the west. They managed to conquer the harsh desert and bring luxury goods from the Arabian Peninsula to the Hellenistic-Roman world. Their cargo included Myrrh, salt, spices, perfumes, and their most valuable item – Frankincense, which was used in large quantities by the Romans as incense, medicine, and in cosmetics. However along with trade goods came an exchanging of ideas and interaction between different nations, this is another reason the route was so valuable.Renovated Market in MamshitTowns, forts, and caravanserai were established as rest points along the route; as support for the Nabataean population who settled the rough land, and as a way to monitor, secure and defend the route. The innovative town planning involved in creating towns like Avdat is apparent in the surrounding pastoral landscape, field system, and water system with cisterns, dams, and reservoirs. This is another testimony to the power of the Nabataean culture and economy. Due to the challenging desert environment, there has been little damaging modern development on these ancient sites and fossilized landscapes. The settlements have, to a large extent, managed to retain their authenticity and integrity since being abandoned after the Arab conquest in 636AD.Thankfully all of the sites are state-owned and protected within national parks or nature reserves.In Moa on the Jordanian border, there are the ruins of an inn, storerooms, a guard post, and an aqueduct. In Mamshit are the remains of an inn, churches, a bathhouse, and parts of the ancient town’s sophisticated water system. Avdat was perhaps the largest Nabataean settlement along the incense route. Here you can see the remains of a sophisticated bathhouse and steam rooms, a fortress, burial caves, a deep well, a Nabataean shrine, and a furnace. Shivta was a much smaller settlement and here you can still see evidence of the water system, oil presses, and several churches. Halutz was the last town before the caravans headed towards their final stop in Gaza port and here you can see the ruins of a theatre and a church.For more detailed information feel free to read this article Ancient Routes of Israel.

The Roman Theater in the Jordan capital of Amman was carved into Jabal Al-Jofeh on the northern side of the hill in 138-161 BC. Today it is one of the top attractions of Amman and a popular performance venue; This is a great place to get your fill on History, Archeology, and culture.History of Amman Roman TheaterThe magnificent theater was constructed when Amman was part of the Roman Empire, during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius. He was a big fan of the arts and encouraged the construction of theaters, and cultural centers. At the time the city was called Philadelphia, after the Ptolemaic ruler, Philadelphus. Construction took place between 138AD and 161AD, and the theater became the central attraction of the city.In 1957 work began on restoring the ancient structure. Although the restoration was not done with the original materials, it still looks like it did 2000 years ago. And today the theater is used for performances, concerts, and special events.What to See and Do at the Amman Roman TheaterAmman’s Roman theater has the classic design of Roman theaters with a stage; an Orchestra (the ground-level open area between the stage and seats); a Cavea (the audience seating area), and the Scaenae (a decorative, permanently built stone background to the stage). Pro Tip: Get the best photos of the Roman theater in the morning and the best views of the city from the top tier of the seats before sunset.The CaveaThe Roman Theater in Amman could accommodate 6,000 people in the audience, sitting on the steep tiered steps. You might notice that the theater was built facing north. This was so that the audience would not have the sun in their eyes when watching performances. There are a total of 44 rows in the cavea. 2,000 years ago the audience would have been divided by social rank with the rich and powerful sitting near the front, and the poor, slaves, women, and foreigners sitting in the upper section.Roman Theater MuseumsOn either side of the Roman structure are two small heritage museums, the Museum of Popular Traditions and The Folklore Museum. If you want to see statues that once adorned the theater, visit the Jordan Museum in the city.Amman Roman ForumA public square (Roman Forum) once stood in front of the theater. It was added by Emperor Commodus. At the time this would have been one of the largest forums in the Roman Empire, measuring 100m by 50m. What remains today are a few of the columns that stood around the square and some Roman paving stones.The OdeonJust east of the large Roman Theater, you can see a smaller Roman performance venue called the Odeon, which could seat 500 spectators. At the same site is the Nymphaeum, an ornate fountain built in 191AD and dedicated to the water nymphs.Plan Your VisitOpening Hours: Winter (November through April) 08:00-16:00; summer 08:00-18:30; April and May 08:00-17:30; holy month 08:30-18:00. The museums that flank the Roman Theater have the same open hours.Prices: Entrance Fee is 2 JOD, and covers the site's museums as well.Average Visit Duration: Plan to spend 1-2 hours at the Amman Roman Theater.Special Events: The Roman Theater in Amman hosts regular performances and cultural events, like the popular Al-Balad Music Festival.Relevant Tours: You can combine a visit to the Roman Theater with a tour of the Amman Citadel which is located nearby. Even if you are on a short tour from Israel to Petra, try to extend your stay in Jordan to include time in Amman and a visit to the Roman Theater.

The Amman Citadel (Jabal Al-Qal’a) stands on one of Amman’s seven hills in the Jordanian capital. The ancient hilltop remains to look down on the city of Amman as a constant reminder of Jordan’s role in ancient history. Today it is an archaeological site, but the citadel has a long and illustrious past. To understand the importance and size of the Amman Citadel, imagine that it would have been larger than iconic Roman structures such as the Forum, Coliseum, or Pantheon in Rome. The impressive Roman complex includes tombs, stairs, walls, arches, and columns from various periods, but the site is not yet fully excavated.History of the Amman CitadelAs early as 1800-1200 BC, the Bronze Age, Citadel Hill was fortified with 1,700-long walls that surrounded the hill. In the Iron Age Citadel Hill became the capital of the Kingdom of Ammon, also known as Rabbath Ammon. The Amman Citadel Inscription was recovered from this period and is the oldest known inscription in the Ammonite language.Various conquering empires occupied the citadel over the years including the Neo-Assyrian Empire in the 8th century BC, Neo-Babylonian Empire in the 6th century BC, and the Seleucids in the 3rd century. But most of what has survived at the Amman Citadel site dates back to the Romans who arrived here in about 30 BC and remained into the 1st century AD. There are also archaeological remains from the Byzantine era (3rd century AD) and Umayyads (7th century AD). During the Ayyubid rule, in the 13th century, the citadel lost its importance and a watchtower was constructed on the hill.What to See at Amman Citadel Temple of HerculesThe remains of the Temple of Hercules are the most significant Roman remains in the complex. An inscription tells us that the temple was built sometime between 162-166 AD while Geminis Marcianus was governor of the Province of Arabia. When it was first constructed the temple would have been 30 meters by 24 meters, with an additional outer sanctum more than twice that size. The facade boasted six tall columns. Two 13.5 meter-high columns have survived as well as several broken columns.Hercules’ HandA colossal 12-meter-high statue of Hercules once stood at the temple. But it was destroyed by an earthquake. Today the only part of the statue that remains is a very Instagramable hand, or rather three fingers of a hand.Umayyad PalaceDuring the Umayyad period (661-750 AD) a large palace complex was built on Citadel Hill. It may have been built on the remains of an earlier Byzantine structure as the palace mimics the pattern and layout of Byzantine architecture. The ruins include a restored entrance chamber topped with an impressive dome, and a monumental gateway or kiosk. Within the palace complex, you can also see the remains of a mosque, residential buildings, and a large water cistern.Jordan Archaeological MuseumThis museum was built on Citadel Hill in 1951 to hold the artifacts found at the site. The collections are arranged chronologically, so you can see the site's history and how it changed over thousands of years. Museum highlights include the Ain Ghazal statues, large-scale lime plaster, and reed figures dating back to approximately 7250 BC-6250 BC.Byzantine ChurchSee the ruins of a Byzantine-era church, including parts of its original floor mosaic and pillars.Plan Your VisitOpening Hours: Winter (November through April) 08:00-16:00; summer 08:00-18:30; April and May 08:00-17:30; holy month 08:30-18:00.Prices: Entrance is 2 dinars, but free with the Jordan Pass which also gives you free admission or discounts for over 40 other sites like Petra Archaeological Park, Wadi Rum, and the Madaba Mosaic Map site. Average Visit Duration: Plan to spend 1-2 Hours at the Amman Citadel.Popular Times:Try to visit in the late afternoon, when there are fewer crowds and cooler weather.Visiting the Amman Citadel with a guided tour is also an option; this way you can learn a lot more about the site. You can also combine a trip to Israel and Jordan with a stop at the Amman Citadel.

The Seven Pillars of Wisdom is the largest, most famous rock formation of the otherworldly Wadi Rum. These are seven distinct elements that seem like they're leaning and supporting each other (an awesome life lesson, for a rock). Visitors say it's a must-see for every visitor to Jordan; The tranquil, colorful desert around it creates a special atmosphere that is hard to explain - Butthe pics they take are just spectacular.The Seven Pillars of Wisdom(byDavid Stanley CC BY 2.0)History of The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, JordanGeologists say the Seven Pillars of Wisdom's peak exposes just how old this formation is. It's compiled of the two most prominent rock types in Wadi Rum: Quartz Sandstone from the Paleozoic era – half a Billion years ago, and under it, there's a layer of granitoids from the Precambrian era, over 4.5 Billion years old.The massive rock was named after Thomas Edward Lawrence's book "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph"; the writer knew the area very well; He was the famous "Lawrence of Arabia", British leader of the Arab uprising against the Othman Empire in 1916.The rock formation from distance. The view is just Martian (by paalia CC BY 2.0)The local Bedouin had a less distinguished name for the rock: In ancient times, remote and secluded mountain ranges were considered dangerous and were given names to represent possible risks in order to discourage the populous. So this Majestic rock was called Jabbal Al-Mazmar, or "the mountain of Plague". Don't worry, it's just a name.Where is the Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock?The rock formation towers over its surroundings in the northwest of the wadi, and is very hard to miss; this is one of the first things you'll see when arriving at the Reserve. It’s located 3km Northwest of the Alameleh Inscriptions site, and less than 2km from the Martian-looking Wadi Rum Big Red Sand Dune. Most Wadi Rum Tours will take you there, and you'll shoot some incredible photos; somehow, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom just can't look bad in pics.What to See and do at the Seven Pillars of WisdomThe Wadi Rum Area is filled with beautiful spots such as the famous Um Furth Rock Arc, and the Red and Yellow dunes. Southeast of the mountain you'll find the Mushroom Rock, as well as some historically interesting spots like Lawrence's House.The 4X4 rides are the best way to get around Wadi RumBut the best way to experience Wadi Rum is a Jeep trip, that will take you to many interesting spots. If you stay there overnight, you can also enjoy activities offered by local glamping sites – such as Camel rides, Stargazing, and hikes.Plan Your VisitOpening Times:always there; It's a mountain. Tours and lone visitors reach it from dawn to dusk.Prices:Free if you can get there on your own - which isn't recommended for people who don't usually travel the desert. Local guides can be pricy, so most visitors just take an organized tour that includes this attraction.Average Visit Duration:20-30 minutes. Could take hours, If you want to hike around it.Popular Times:The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the heat.Special Events:The surrounding campsites hold stargazing tours several times a week and offer amazing views of the Milkey Way from the dark, secluded wilderness.Relevant Tours:Petra and Wadi Rum Tours from Eilatwill get you there, and you'll see the area's amazing rock formations. Such Petra+Wadi Rum Tour is a great solution for making the most of your trip: It will cover many attractions, and also take you to the marvelousPetra Treasury, theRoyal Tombs, theSiq, and much more.

The Um Fruth rock bridge is one of Wadi Rum's most famous spots: a rocky arch molded by wind and water over eons until it looks just like an elevated walkway, 15 meters high. Don't even think about missing this great photo op.History of the Um Fruth rock bridgeJordan is famous for amazing things ancient cultures created within nature, such as the Nabatean Lost City of Petra – a beautiful capital, all carved into red canyon walls. But the Um Fruth rock bridge is 100% natural: Water and wind grind the rock's basis, so it gradually dissolves. The famous Rock Bridge (by Thraen CC BY-SA 4.0)In time, water sources can dry out or change course due to seismic activity or human involvement such as dams, and this is how we get stone arches like the Um Fruth rock bridge.How do you get to the Um Fruth rock bridge?The Bridge is located in the southeast part of the Wadi Rum reserve, about 4km west of the famous Burdah Rock Bridge. Most Wadi Rum Tours will take you there by Jeep, Camel, or on foot.Is it Hard to Climb the Um Fruth rock bridge?The climb isn't difficult, but still won't be suitable for small children and the differently abled. Note that there are no safety ropes around, but the rock is both wide and stable – so just watch your step.Hard to climb? not so muchPlan Your VisitOpening Times: always there; It's a Rock. Tours and lone visitors reach it from dawn to dusk.Prices: Free if you can get there on your own - which isn't recommended for people who don't usually travel the desert. Local guides can be pricy, so most visitors just take an organized tour that includes this attraction.Average Visit Duration: 20-30 minutes; note that sometimes there's a line - this is a VERY popular spot.Popular Times: The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the heat. Special Events: The surrounding campsites hold stargazing tours several times a week and offer amazing views of the Milkey Way from the dark, secluded wilderness.Relevant Tours: Petra and Wadi Rum Tours from Eilat will get you there, and you'll see the area's amazing rock formations. Such Petra+Wadi Rum Tour is a great solution for making the most of your trip: It will cover many attractions, and also take you to the marvelous Petra Treasury, the Royal Tombs, the Siq, and much more.

One of the top attractions of Aqaba, the Red Sea port city in Jordan, is the Mamluk Castle. It is also known as the Aqaba Fortress or Aqaba Castle. This well-preserved historical site tells the story of Aqaba’s conquerors and rulers over the course of hundreds of years.History of Mamluk CastleThe structure was completed in 1517 under the Mamluk Sultan Qanswah al-Ghawri. ProTip: Spot the Arabic inscription in the gateway showing the date of construction.The main entrance to Mamluk CastleThe fort was used as a travelers’ inn or Khan. Muslim pilgrims en route to Mecca could stop here to rest and renew their supplies for the rest of the journey. The fortress was used and renovated by several Arab dynasties and survived a Crusader attack in 1116. The Turkish Ottomans controlled the area, including Aqaba and the fortress until the Arab Revolt in 1916 when Sharif Hussein bin Ali al-Hashimi, in alliance with Britain and France (and with the help of Lawrence of Arabia) managed to oust the Turks. The fortress played an important role in the revolt and was a heavily defended stronghold of the Turks. The revolt continued until October 1918, and in 1917 most of the fort, including the west wall and the northwest tower, was destroyed by British bombs.Today a tall flag pole stands in the Great Arab Revolt Plaza, next to the fortress commemorating the Arab Revolt.In 1922 Transjordan was recognized as a state under the British Mandate which lasted until 1946 when Jordan gained independence. Since then the Jordanian authority has slowly been restoring and preserving precious monuments like the Aqaba Fort.What to See and Do atMamluk CastleThe rectangular-shaped fortress had towers at each corner and in the middle of the northern wall stood the two-towered gatehouse. Above the entrance of the fortress, you can see a machicolation (an opening in the battlement where hot oil, tar, or water could be thrown down on attacking forces below) adorned with a large coat-of-arms of the Hashemites, commemorating victory during the Arab Revolt. ProTip: This is one of the best photo ops at the Mamluk Castle.The Mamluk Castle ruinsWithin the walls would have been a two-story structure with rooms used for pilgrims during the Ottoman era and used as army barracks during the Arab Revolt. A mosque once stood by the south wall, but all that remains of this structure are the Qiba and Mihrab.The fortress had rooms beneath the ground that predated the Mamluks fort, but they were destroyed during the Crusader attack of 1116 and by an earthquake in 1068 before being abandoned.The structure we see today dates back to the 16th century. ProTip: If you’re at the fortress it is a short walk to the adjacent Aqaba Archaeological Museum housed in Sharif Hussein’s former residence.The Fortress facadePlan Your VisitOpen Times: Sunday to Thursday 08:00-17:00 (and until 16:00 in winter); Friday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 (and until 16:00 in winter.Prices: 3 JD or if you join a Petra tour from Israel that visits the fortress, the entrance will be included. Note that The Jordan Pass includes Aqaba Castle.Average Visit Duration: You could spend up to an hour exploring the fortress.Popular Times: Tourists visit the Aqaba Fort throughout the day but because of the heat it is always recommended to do your Aqaba sightseeing in the morning or afternoon.Special Events: The Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival is in February and showcases traditional Bedouin arts and crafts.Relevant Tours: Join a 2-day Petra tour from Israel that includes a panoramic tour of Aqaba. Here you can find a goodPetra tour from Tel Aviv and recommendedPetra tours from Eilat.

Djinn Blocks is a fascinating and historical site located in Petra, Jordan. The site was discovered by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812. Petra, known as the Red City, was once a thriving city of the Nabatean Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The Djinn Blocks, Petradjinn blocks (by Gerd Eichmann CC BY-SA 4.0)Tourists are drawn to the Djinn Blocks for their unique and impressive appearance, as well as their historical significance. Visitors often marvel at the intricate carvings and the sheer size of the blocks. The Djinn Blocks are also favored for their stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains, making them a popular spot for photos and picnics.History of the Djinn BlocksThe Djinn Blocks are massive sandstone blocks, carved into various shapes and sizes, giving them a unique and striking appearance. These blocks were used as tombs and were carved by the Nabateans over 2,000 years ago.The Djinn Blocks are considered some of the best examples of Nabatean architecture and engineering, and they offer a glimpse into the rich history of Petra.The road to the Djinn Blocks (by Dosseman CC BY-SA 4.0)Locals believe these blocks were created to house spirits, to guard both the living and the dead. Djinn is, in fact, the original Genie – the wish-granting magical creature we all know and love. But Arab folklore depicts them as shape-shifting entities, neither good nor evil – that can take control of a person's body for their exploits. The Djinn Blocks were built to appease the spirits, hoping they'll guard their surroundings at night.What to See and Do in the Djinn BlocksThe Djinn Blocks is the first attraction you'll see as you walk into the Petra Archeological Park. Located about 350 meters from the parking lot, right on the main path - this is not a site you'll miss. Visitors like to take their pictures with these "Genie Apartments", and some hold out their hand to the stone and make a wish, hoping the spirit will be in their favor.Make a wish, maybe the Djinn will help out. The Djinn Blocks (by Dennis Jarvis CC BY-SA 2.0)If you'll continue walking down the main road, you'll reach some of Petra's most popular attractions:The Obelisk TombAbout 50 meters from the blocks, right across the main path, you'll find the Obelisk Tomb; its massive pylons - erected to honor a dignified Nabatean merchant over 2,000 years ago - tower over the main path and create a lovely photo op. Visitors like to go up into the tomb chamber itself and take photos of the Djinn Blocks from above.The SiqIf you'll head west on the main path, you'll note its descent into the mountain range – until you'll see the Siq: a lovely gorge with smooth walls and interesting colors. The is the road to Petra, and after a walk through the rosy cliff, you'll see the Petra Treasury.The Petra TreasuryAlso known as Al-Khizneh, this is the most famous spot in Jordan, and one of the most beautiful archeological sites in the entire Middle East. The treasury's huge façade compiled of columns, and intricate decorations and has a large urn at its top.The Petra Treasury, view from the ridgeline The locals believe this place still holds an ancient, hidden treasure. Visitors who stay overnight can also see the treasury get lit with candles several times a week – see the next section for details.Plan Your VisitOpening Times:Summer 06:00-18:00; Winter 06:00-16:00.Prices:90 DOJ, but travelers who join a Petra tour from Israel will have the entrance price included in their price.Pro Tip:If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour, buy the Jordan Pass for a discount to the Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:20 minutes,Popular Times:The best time to visit Petra is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events:A magnificent candlelight spectacle takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The path leading towards the Treasury and the Treasury itself is lit up with over 1,500 candles. The show features bedouin music, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours:EveryPetra 1-Day Tourwill take you past the Djinn Blocks. Note that thePetra Archeological Parkholds many marvelous attractions you just won't reach unless you plan a2-day Petra tour. That way you could see MUCH more, such as the amazingPetra Monastery, andQasr Al-Bint temple. With aPetra tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll see two countries on one trip.

The Obelisk Tomb in Petra, Jordan, is a magnificent structure that stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.The Obelisk Tomb This unique monument is believed to have been created by the Nabateans, an ancient Arab people who once inhabited the area and left behind a legacy of incredible architectural achievements.History of the Obelisk TombBuilt in the 1st century CE, this beautiful structure combines traditional Nabaean architecture with Hellenistic, Egyptian, and even Indian elements. It used o have five obelisks, representing the five Nabatean noblemen buried in its halls - but the western obelisk - the tallest of the bunch - was destroyed under unknown circumstances.The Obelisk Tomb was first discovered by European explorers in the 19th century, and since then it has become a popular tourist destination for those visiting Petra. Visitors are drawn to the tomb's intricate details and stunning architecture, as well as its rich history and cultural significance. Many tourists enjoy exploring the numerous carvings and inscriptions that adorn the walls and pillars of the tomb, which offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the Nabateans.What to See and Do at the Obelisk TombThis lovely attraction is hard to miss: it sits on the main road to Petra, about 400 meters from the parking lot. The tomb is compiled of a lower facade, called Bab al-Siq by the locals; this element marks the entrance to the deep gorge leading to Petra itself - located just a few minutes walk from the tomb.The Tomb's upper floor contains burial niches and a splendid viewInside, you'll see a resting and dining hall, with three benches that were used for feasts in honor of the deceased. The stairs up will take you to the burial halls themselves. This is a great photo location, with interesting light and shadow.As you walk down the main road to the west, you'll see some of the most popular and special points of interest in the Petra Archeological Park:The Djinn BlocksThe Djinn Blocks sit just over the main road, 50 meters from the tomb. These are massive blocks built in ancient times as houses for desert spirits - the Djinn. These legendary apparitionswere the inspiration behind the wish-granting Genie we all know. The Nabateans built these structures to appease the spirits, and even today people lay their hands on the blocks and make wishes.The Djinn Blocks (by Gerd Eichmann CC BY-SA 4.0)The SiqAfter a few hundred meters, you'll note that path's descent: it will lead you to the Siq - a stunning gorge with smooth walls and mesmerizing colors. This is the road to the lost city of Petra, and the famous Petra Treasury.The Petra TreasuryLocals call it Al-Khizneh; this is the most captivating and remarkable structure in the park, considered its crown jewel. The treasury's enormous façade has large columns, and intricate ornamentations, and its splendor is a sight to behold.The Petra TreasuryPlan Your VisitOpening Times:Summer 06:00-18:00; Winter 06:00-16:00.Prices:90 DOJ, but travelers who join a Petra tour from Israel will have the entrance price included in their price.Pro Tip:If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour, buy the Jordan Pass for a discount to the Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:20 minutes,Popular Times:The best time to visit Petra is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events:A magnificent candlelight spectacle takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The path leading towards the Treasury and the Treasury itself is lit up with over 1,500 candles. The show features bedouin music, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours:EveryPetra 1-Day Tourtakes you past the Obelisk Tomb. But note that thePetra Archeological Parkharbors many fantastic attractions you just won't reach unless you plan a2-day Petra tour. That way you could see MUCH more, such as the amazingPetra Monastery, andQasr Al-Bint temple. With aPetra tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll see two countries on one trip.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: The square is open to the public 24/7 and the attractions and restaurants here each have their open hours.Prices: Entrance to the square is free.Average Visit Duration: About 30 minutes.Popular Times: Kedumim Square is charming at any time of day, visit at lunchtime to enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants, or visit at night when the square is beautifully lit up.Special Events: In the summertime (July-August) the municipality provides free entertainment in the square. The square is the main hub of the Jaffa Nights Festival during the summer months.Relevant Tours: Several Tel Aviv tours and Jaffa-centric experiences such as a Jaffa walking tour will stop at Kedumim Square.Kedumim Square or Kikar Kedumim, (literally translated as Antiquities Square) is in the heart of Old Jaffa, and the perfect place to start exploring this ancient port city. You can’t miss Kedumim Square even if you try, as the city’s top attractions surround it. The Kedumin Square (Image source: Mattes)It is an essential stop for anyone looking forattractions in Jaffaas this is where you’ll find the Jaffa Visitors Center. Beneath the square are archaeological excavations that can be seen at the museum in the Visitors Center. The surrounding buildings are built of beautiful pale sandstone.You’ll find art galleries, restaurants, cafes, souvenir stores, and boutiques here. This is the place to come if you just want to hang out and soak up the atmosphere, or if you want to visit all the top attractions.How to find the Kedumim Square? You’ll enterJaffafrom Tel Aviv, along Yefet Street where you’ll see the city’s most famous landmark, the OttomanClock Tower. The Old City of Jaffa and Kedumim Square are west of the Clock Tower.It is easy to explore Jaffa on foot, and if you turn right just after the clock tower you’ll arrive in the Old City. Pro Tip: If you turned left you’d end up in the Jaffa Flea Market which is also worth visiting. If you take Mifratz Shlomo Street it is a 7-minute walk to the square, and you’ll pass the Mahmoudiya Mosque. Alternatively, keep going along Yefet Street a little further before turning right on Louis Pasteur Street. This route is a 13-minute walk to the Old City.Things to See and Do in Kedumim Square, JaffaZodiac FountainIn 2011 artists Varda Ghivoly, Ilan Gelber, and Navot Gil created this fun fountain.It features the twelve zodiac signs carved out of chalkstone.The Zodiac FountainAt night theZodiac Fountainis lit up bringing the zodiac characters to life. Legend has it that it is a magic wishing well, and if you throw a coin in and make a wish it will come true.Kedumim Visitor Center JaffaYour most important stop in Kedumim Square is the Visitors Center which also houses the Jaffa Museum known as Jaffa Tales. The staff is accommodating providing information about the city’s attractions, and selling tours, and maps. The information about Jaffa is available in Russian, German, English, Arabic, Hebrew, Spanish, and French.Jaffa Tales MuseumThe museum is accessed via the Visitor Center and offers a multi-media glimpse into 5,000 years of Jaffa history. At the museum, visitors walk along walkways through the archaeological excavations beneath Kedumim Square.The museum also known as Jaffa Tales takes you on a journey back in time using genuine archaeological artifacts, animated displays, and holograms of historical figures who tell their story. The two video presentations at the museum are available in Hebrew, Arabic, French<, German, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. Note thatentrance is by prior arrangement.Attractions Within 3 Minutes of Kedumim SquareThe Wishing BridgeJust one minute from Kedumim Square is the famousWishing Bridge, it features twelve bronze plaques, each with a zodiac sign. Yes, you may have noticed Jaffa has fountains, streets, statues, and bridges with an astrological theme.The Wishing BridgeSaint Peter’s ChurchThis impressive church is named after Saint Peter who spent time in Jaffa. It was here that he brought Tabitha back to life. TheSt. Peter’s Churchisreminiscent of a European basilica and has a stunning interior.St. Peter's ChurchZodiac LanesFrom Kedumim Square there is a network of narrow stone alleys named after the zodiac signs that lead down to the old port. The lanes are quaint with brightly colored doorways dripping with vines and bougainvillea, perfect for Instagram shots. On the way, you’ll pass several art galleries and boutique stores.Pro Tip:One of the most famous galleries here is the Ilana Goor Museum on Mazal Dagim Street (Gemini Street).The PromenadeFrom Kedumim Square continue north in the direction of Tel Aviv and follow the upper promenade that offers spectacular views of the coastline.

Mitzpe Gadot is a lookout point in the Golan overlooking the Hula Valley. The spot has a fascinating history; it is the site of a former Syrian bunker and offers a breathtaking view.History of Mitzpe GadotIn 1946 the state of Syria was created giving a large area of the Golan Heights to the new country. From 1948 when Israel was established to 1967 the kibbutzim and villages in the Hula Valley were targeted by Syrian snipers who took aim from the Golan. During those 19 years, there were at least 400 shootings and more than 1,000 shells fired at Israeli communities. During the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel pushed the Syrians back across the border taking a section of the Golan Heights creating a buffer zone between the two countries and Syrian sipper fire. In 1981 Israel officially annexed the area and all residents were given Israeli citizenship. Since then this area has been almost completely free of conflict. Mitzpe Gadot is the site of a Syrian bunker from the era prior to 1967.Eli CohenEli Cohen (1924-1965) was a famous Israeli spy who infiltrated Syria and became the chief advisor to the Syrian Minister of Defense while feeding information back to Israel. Cohen convinced the Syrians to plant Eucalyptus trees around each of their outposts and then told the Israeli’s to look out for eucalyptus groves as targets. He was eventually captured and hanged in Syria. Mitzpe Gadot was one of the Syrian posts where eucalyptus trees were planted. Cohen’s intel about the Syrian construction of three rows of bunkers and munitions helped in the Israelis capture of the Golan.Mitzpe Gadot TodayToday Mitzpe Gadot remains a beautiful hillside where you can look down over the Israeli kibbutzim. There is a memorial in honor of fallen soldiers who fought in gruesome battles in this area during the 1967 and 1973 wars and the Lebanon campaign of 1982. The site is planted with eucalyptus trees and there is an audio guide telling of Eli Cohen and the history of the area.Want to visit Mitzpe Gadot and hear it's fascinating history? book a Private Tour to the GolanHeights.

Elisha’s Spring (also called the Prophet’s Fountain and Elisha’s Fountain) is a freshwater spring near the archaeological mound of Tel Jericho where remains of settlements were found dating back to about 8,000 BC. The people who settled here so long ago would have done so to take advantage of the freshwater which is such a scarcity in the harsh desert environment just north of the Dead Sea. Elisha’s Spring makes Jericho an oasis or City of Palms in otherwise dry surroundings. The perennial spring continues to produce plenty of water which has a temperature of 26°C.Elisha Healed the WaterElisha is a venerated prophet in Islam, Judaism and Christianity and for this reason, the spring is also called the Prophet’s Fountain. Elisha is mentioned in Kings II 2:19-22 when the people of Jericho came to Elisha and told him that the city had a good location near water but it was not good water and could not irrigate the land. Elisha called for a jar of salt which he then threw into the water saying that the water was healed and would never again cause death or unfruitful land. From that point on the water was pure.Visiting Elisha’s SpringToday Elisha’s Spring lies across the road just east of Tel Jericho (Tel es-Sultan) and about 2km northwest of the modern city of Jericho. Visitors to Jericho can stand overlooking the spring where it exits the ground near the red-roofed pumping house and look down on the water teeming with fish. The pumping station provides Jericho with water and small waterways are redirected to fields for irrigation. Another viewing point of Elisha’s Spring is at the site of a pond and fountain fed by the spring under the shade of a fig tree. A beautifully tiled sign behind the spring reads:” Jericho – the Oldest City of the World” and “Elisha Spring Fountain.”To visit Elisha's Spring in Tel Jericho join a tour to Bethlehem and Jericho.

Take a stroll along Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade, starting in the north, perhaps at the Tel Aviv Port. Just before you reach the old port city of Jaffa, you’ll reach HaPisga Garden (the Garden of the Peak or Summit Garden), named for its location on the peak of a rocky outcrop which is crowned by Jaffa. Spread out below HaPisga Garden is the spectacular view along Israel’s Mediterranean coast looking north to Tel Aviv. Continue a little further and you’ll be in Jaffa.Many people walk straight through HaPisga Garden, or they bypass it altogether, but this fascinating patch of green holds some interesting stories. It is connected seamlessly to HaMidron Garden, HaMuze’on Garden, and Sha’ar Ra’amses Garden. HaPisga Garden can be approached from several entrance points including crossing the Zodiac Bridge from Kedumim Square in the heart of Old Jaffa.Plan Your VisitLocation - HaPisga Garden (Abrasha Park), HaPisga Street, Tel Aviv-JaffaOpen Times - 24/7Prices - FreeAverage Visit Duration - 1 hourSpecial Events - The park, and in particular the amphitheater is a venue for outdoor concerts and events including the annual Jaffa Nights Festival, and the International Student Film Festival. Every Saturday in June between 17:00 and 23:00 the park welcomes people to “Picnic in Pisga”, bring your picnic basket and spread out a blanket on the grass as you watch the city lights in the distanceTours - The best way to learn about the stories that hide behind HaPisga Garden is to take the Tel Aviv day tour or the Jaffa walking tourHistory of HaPisga Garden (Abrasha Park)HaPisga Garden holds historical significance, situated atop a hill that overlooks both Tel Aviv and the ancient port city of Jaffa. Originally established as a park in the early 20th century, it was later renovated and reopened to the public, blending its rich past with modern amenities.Why is it called Abrasha Park?HaPisga Garden is also known as Abrasha Park in honor of Avraham (Abrasha) Schechterman, deputy mayor of Tel Aviv in the 1950s and one of the initiators of the development of Jaffa.The park was designed by Avraham Karvan, who was the chief gardener of the city of Tel Aviv for about four decades. Although he never studied landscape gardening he was responsible for creating many of the city’s public gardens and open spaces. The park has benches where you can sit and enjoy the 360-degree view across the sea and city, as well as nearby restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and historical monuments waiting to be discovered.What to See in HaPisga Garden (Abrasha Park), JaffaGate of Faith - This sturdy square stone arch was sculptured by Daniel Kafri from Galilee stone. It stands at the highest point of Abrasha Park. The stone is carved with three biblical scenes, Jacob’s dream, the fall of Jericho, and the sacrifice of Isaac. The design of the sculpture in the shape of an arch symbolizes the entrance to the Promised Land. The Gate of Faith stands on an observation platform where there are panoramic views.Amphitheater - There are regular performances in this outdoor venue.Napoleon’s Cannons - The famous French general, Napoleon Bonapart spent time in Jaffa in 1799, and after making a speedy retreat a number of his army’s cannons were abandoned. Today they can be seen in Abrasha Park.Archaeological Remains - In the southeastern part of the garden there are excavation areas. Stone bridges cross above the ancient remains so you can look down from the bridges to get a glimpse of the past.HaPisga Garden (Abrasha Park) in Jaffa is more than just a scenic stop along Tel Aviv’s coastline; it’s a vibrant blend of history, art, and natural beauty, with stories that invite exploration at every turn. As you stroll through its paths, admire the sweeping Mediterranean views, discover the historic monuments, or pause at the Gate of Faith to reflect on the rich cultural significance of this place, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the legacy that Jaffa brings to modern-day Israel.Whether you’re here to enjoy a peaceful picnic, attend a lively outdoor event, or explore on a guided tour, HaPisga Garden offers an experience that perfectly captures the soul of Jaffa. With its panoramic views, archaeological remnants, and connection to Jaffa’s fascinating past, HaPisga Garden provides a serene yet captivating escape that resonates with visitors and locals alike.

St Catherine’s Church is located within the Church of the Nativity compound in Bethlehem. St. Catherine’s is the Bethlehem parish church and part of a Franciscan Monastery. The church is one of the top attractions in the city and stands on the site where Jesus appeared before St Catherine of Alexandria in the 4th century and predicted her martyrdom. The Catholic church and its Franciscan monastery exhibit elements from structures of different historic periods. The church is part of a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. St. Catherine’s Church is the venue for the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass held annually on the 24th of December and broadcast live around the world to millions of Christians.History of St. Catherine’s ChurchOn this site in 1347, a shrine was dedicated to St. Catherine. In 1882 the structure was expanded thanks to funding by the Emperor of Austria. The new structure incorporated elements of a 12th century Crusader Church and Charter House as well as the 5th-century Sanctuary of St. Jerome that once stood here. The church and specifically the cloister were redesigned in 1948 by renowned architect Antonio Barluzzi. In 2013 the church was expanded to accommodate more worshipers.St. Catherine of AlexandriaSt. Catherine lived in the 4th century in the Egyptian city of Alexandria. She was a princess and a scholar who adopted Christianity after having a vision of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus. She is known for having converted many people to Christianity at the young age of 14. She was martyred at the age of 18 at the hands of Roman Emperor Maxentius at a time when the Romans were persecuting Christians. Catherine was hung on a spiked wheel after being beheaded. From St. Catherine, we get the “Catherine Wheel.” Angels took her body to Mt. Sinai (Mt. St. Catherine) where her relics are now held. St Catherine is venerated mostly by the Eastern Orthodox Church and she is celebrated on her feast day on 24-25th November.What to See in the Church of St CatherineAt the entrance of the church, you can see beautiful arches that have been incorporated from the Crusader-era St. Jerome’s Cloister. It is possible to enter the Church of St. Catherine from the north transept; the underground caves, via the adjacent Nativity Church and through the church’s Cloister of St. Jerome. The large church has a nave and two aisles with a raised choir. The stunning stained glass window that creates a backdrop to the main altar was added in 2000 and depicts the nativity scene. Topping the roof of the church is a statue of Saint Catherine. Barluzzi’s design of the cloister incorporates column and their capitals from the 12th-century monastery. Standing at the center of the cloister is a statue of Saint Jerome. The original shrine that was once just a small part of the Franciscan Monastery is now part of the altar dedicated to St. Catherine. There is also an altar dedicated to Mary where you can see an 18th-century statue of Jesus as a young child. The church is connected to the adjacent Church of the Nativity by an underground passage.The Caves beneath St. Catherine’sThe highlight of a visit to St. Catherine’s is a visit to the underground caves. Steps lead you down beneath the church to grottoes holding several shrines and ancient tombs. A passage leads from the caves to the adjacent Church of the Nativity. Among those buried in the caves are St Paula, her daughter Eustochium and St Jerome. It was in one of these grottoes that St. Jerome is believed to have translated the Latin Bible into the vernacular.Want to visit St. Catherine Church? Join our Half day tour to Bethlehem.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices:Free.Average Visit Duration:30 minutes.Popular Times:Take a walk along the upper level of the park day or night for spectacular sea views.Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can enjoy the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.Relevant Tours:A walking tour of Jaffa usually includes HaMidron Garden. you can also take a private Tel Aviv tour and ask to go through this green little gem.One of the best parks in Tel Aviv, HaMidron Garden is one of several connecting green patches on the slope down from Jaffa’s Old City to the Tel Aviv promenade. In fact, “HaMidron” means the slope in Hebrew. Of the Jaffa parks, it is the one closest to Tel Avivon the northern slope ofJaffa’s Old City. HaMidron Garden (Image source: DR. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)It is an elongated green space between the sea and the Tayelet Mifratz Shlomo Street with stairs connecting paved areas leading down to the Sea Wall Promenade. You can often see fishermen fishing from the promenade at the lower level of the garden. The park is bordered by some of thebest attractions in Jaffa, like thePromenade, severaltop beaches,Al-Bahr Mosque, the Jaffa Theater, and HaPisga Garden.Pro Tip:For something a little unusual check out the adjacent Jaffa Urban Bat Cave.Hamidron Garden and Midron ParkHamidron Garden on the northern side of Jaffa’s Old City is not the same place as Midron Park which is on the southern side of the city in the Ajami neighborhood.Upper Level of HaMidron GardenAt the top of the garden are benches facing the sea, and cast iron cannons, a reminder of when Napoleon conquered Jaffa in 1799. A winding path runs from the top of the garden to the bottom with stairs, and paved areas staggered on the slope. HaMidron Garden (Image source: ORI)As you walk along the path you’ll notice the remains of several historic buildings among the foliage. These are all that remain of a neighborhood that once stood here. Pro Tip: If you’re into geocaching, there is a cache hidden between the stones of a wall about five steps up the stairs of HaMidron Garden.The Best Things to Do at HaMidron GardenFirst, HaMidron Garden is a connecting point between Old Jaffa and the seafront, or the Tel Aviv promenade thanks to the slope and the stairs. Second, the garden is perfect for watching the sunset and enjoying the views across the sea and along Tel Aviv’s coastline. However, it is not the kind of garden you would go to for wide open spaces, or to take kids to play. If you’re looking for a park in Jaffa with playgrounds, lawns, and other facilities, then check out Midron Park at the southern end of the city. Pro Tip: On the upper level of the park there are water fountains, shade, and benches.

Many tourists visit the Old City of Acre without realizing that there is a complete city beneath the ancient streets. The Acre Crusader City was built during the 12th century and destroyed in 1291 when the Mamluks conquered Acre and built their own city on the Crusader ruins. After painstaking excavation and restoration, visitors can now visit Acre’s Crusader City and see the massive Crusader halls, passages, tunnels and chambers. Despite the impressive structure and size of the Crusader City maps found in the Vatican library show that only about 4% of Acre’s Crusader City has been recovered. Acre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Acre’s natural harbor made it a valuable entry point to the Holy Land and Christian pilgrims on route to Jerusalem would often land in Acre. Acre was the connection between medieval Europe and the Middle East. Ships arrived from across the continent bringing foreign cultures, ideas, pilgrims and merchandise. Acre (also known as Aca, Akko, Akka, Acco or St Joan d’Acre) is one of the oldest cities in the world, situated just north of Haifa along Israel’s Mediterranean coast. The city has seen conquerors come and go over the last 4,500 years (at least). One of the most fascinating periods of Acre’s history was during the Crusader era.Who Were the Crusaders of Acre?The Crusaders were Christian monastic soldiers on a mission to protect the Holy Land and provide safe passage to visiting pilgrims. The Crusaders believed that Jerusalem was under threat from the Muslims. They made four crusades to the Holy Land to try and secure the land of Christ for Christians. The First Crusade (1187-1099) secured Jerusalem as the capital of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. The Crusaders held Acre from 1104 until 1187 when Saladin took the city. With the help of Richard the Lionheart the Crusaders retook Acre in 1191 after a two-year siege as part of the Third Crusade. During the Third Crusade, the Christians did not retain their stronghold in Jerusalem and so they planned to transfer their headquarters to the new Crusader buildings in Acre. New floors and new wings were added to the original Hospitallers Center. Acre became the capital of the Second Crusader Kingdom (1191-1291). Under the Crusaders Acre was known as St John d’Acre, the city was named in honor of John the Baptist, the patron saint of the Knights Hospitallers. The Christians remained in the city until 1291 when the Mamluks destroyed Acre and expelling all Christians. The city lay in ruins for about 500 years until the Ottomans arrived. The Ottoman Turks rebuilt the city on top of the Crusader ruins leaving a hidden city beneath the ground. In the 1950s excavations began and today the Acre Crusader City is once more accessible.The Knights TemplarThe Knights Templar was a monastic military Crusader Order that wore white clothing with a red cross. They were first established in the Holy Land on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount (hence the name – Templars). When Jerusalem was taken by Salah a-Din in 1187 the Templars moved to Acre where the Hospitallers had already established a presence. The Templars built their fortress in the southwestern section of the city. The strong fortress ran along the seafront and the entrance was protected by two large towers. The Templars and Hospitallers didn’t always see eye-to-eye but their fates were intertwined. When the Mamluks arrived in 1291 both Crusader Orders were expelled. The Templars carved out a tunnel running from their fortress in the west to the port in the east. The underground tunnel was a possible escape route if they were ever attacked.Sites of the Acre Crusader CityThe Enchanted Garden - A visit to the Acre Crusader City starts at the entrance to the Old City when visitors enter the magical Enchanted Garden. The garden was the entrance courtyard to the Hospitaller Fortress. It has ancient trees creating a canopy above a courtyard with a central fountain. Here you can stop at the Visitor Center and see an introductory film about Acre and the Crusaders. Then the adventure begins. Visitors are given an audio guide and can enter the underground Crusader City going from one hall into the next.Citadel (The Knights’ Kingdom) - The Knights’ Halls of the Hospitaller Fortress lies beneath the Ottoman citadel. The Knights Halls housed the Hospitaller headquarters. Today, visitors can experience Acre history through multimedia displays and exhibits in the Acre Citadel. In the halls of the Citadel visitors can see demonstrations of traditional medieval arts and crafts like glass blowing, weaving and leather craftsmanship.The Fortress Courtyard - This outdoor space covers 1200m² and is surrounded by arches supporting stairways leading to the upper floors.The Northern Hall - This expansive space is divided into six smaller halls connected by arched and covered by a 10-meter high barrel-vaulted ceiling. The outer walls are 3.5 meters thick. An opening leads to the Hall of Pillars via a 3-meter wide corridor.The Pillars Hall - In this impressive 1300m² space exhibits, art work, demonstrations and archaeological displays can be seen. The vaulted ceiling is supported by square stone pillars. During the Crusader period, the hall would have been used for meetings and as a storage space.The Beautiful Hall - This space was named by the excavators who admired the finely chiselled stonework and arched windows. The Crusaders probably used this room as a public rest station for pilgrims.The Sugar Bowl Hall - This hall is a three-story building with water cisterns on the lower floor divided into two halls; the Sugar Bowl Hall is on the second floor.The hall gets its name from the crystalline sugar that was produced and stored in this hall. Earthenware utensils used for sugar production where found in the Sugar Bowl Hall. Sugar was a major industry at the time.Dining Hall - The Dining Hall (Column Hall) would have been filled with long tables and benches where the knights would eat together. It is one of the most impressive rooms in the Crusader complex. The 10-meter high room has three stunning stone columns 3 meters in diameter supporting the vaulted ceiling. There are beautifully decorated capitals. Louis VII visited Acre during the Second Crusade and was impressed by the relief of a lily on the wall of the Crusader dining hall. Following this, the lily was incorporated into the royal Bourbon family coat of arms (fleur-de-lys).The Garderobe (medieval toilet) - The Crusader public toilet room consisted of rows of toilet seats that drained through pipes in the walls into an underground collection room and from there into the central municipal sewage conduit.Prisoners’ Hall - Criminals were held in the window-less Prisoners’ Hall. We can still see the deep holes in the wall where chains would have been attached to shackle prisoners.Templar Tunnel - Today it is possible to walk through the tunnel beneath Acre form one end of the Old City to the other, emerging at the small Acre port. The tunnel runs for 350.5 meters from the former Templar Fortress to the port and was cut through the natural stone.Want to explore the Underground Crusader City? Join our tour toCaesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra.